Put a good, sturdy lamp next to the bed, or locate the bed next to a light switch. This will enable the elderly person to find his/her way to the bathroom at night or locate a needed item without risking a fall

Put a stable nightstand next to the bed. This provides a place for the older person's glasses and other necessary items within easy reach

For frail elderly who are able to use one, place a phone on the bedside table. It will be extremely helpful incase of an emergency, and just knowing it is there may relieve an elder's anxiety and fears

Use a nightlight to help the older person relieve feelings of disorientation when awakening during the night

Keep clear pathways around the bed, to the door and to the bathroom

Remove casters on beds, tables and chairs. Unintended movement of furniture used for support by the elderly person can result in a fall

See that grab bars, railings or rope are mounted in hallways if bedroom is not easily accessible to the bathroom or living areas. Heavy pieces of furniture can also be strategically placed to serve as support for the frail person to get from room to room

Use a hot water bottle for warmth at bedtime. Avoid the use of heating pads and electric blankets when sleeping. Elderly are less sensitive to heat and may become overheated or burned inadvertently

For elderly who are smokers, arrange for a specific, safe place in the house where smoking is allowed. Discourage smoking in bed or while sitting on upholstered furniture

Draw up and practice an evacuation plan in case of fire or other emergency

Fix bed height so the older person can get on and off comfortably

See that storage spaces and needed items are within easy reach of the older person

Bathroom

Install grab bars by toilet and tub/shower areas. Toilet frames, arm rests or commodes can be attached to or placed around the toilet

Wipe up spills from shower or tub immediately or carpet entire bathroom to avoid slips or falls

Use shower seat and shower hose if unable to stand safely while showering

Check and set water heater thermostat to ensure that water temperature is not too hot

Avoid use of electrical equipment in the bathroom as much as possible. Water contact with this equipment may cause electrical shock

Avoid using bath oil in the tub or shower

Kitchen

Use walker/cane for unsteady gait if needed

Stand on the sidewalk, not in the street when waiting to cross

Look both ways before entering a crosswalk. This is especially important for those elderly with diminished hearing

Have regular eye examinations to ensure good vision

Use sunglasses, hat or cap to help prevent glare

When walking at night, wear white or beige clothing, use reflector tapes on shoes and clothing, or use reflectorized garments in orange or yellow

Find a friend or companion when going out at night. Avoid dark areas. Do not carry valuables

Stairs, Pathways & Gardens

Place bright-colored, non-skid strips on the edge of steps to prevent falls

See that stairways, hallways, indoor and outdoor pathways are brightly and evenly lit

Choose shoes that are flexible and easily molded to the feet. Natural materials (suede, leathers) are cooler than manmade materials (plastic, nylon). Shoes with velcro straps are easier to put on/take off

The soles of shoes should be made of material that grips the floor, e.g., corrugated rubber or neolyte. Leather, wood, cork or crepe soled shoes may crack and cause falls